Press Release - Old Saybrook Cares

OLD SAYBROOK PROVIDES A HELPING HAND TO THOSE IMPACTED BY COVID-19

“Old Saybrook Cares” Distributes Nearly $60,000 to 41 Residents in Need

Committee Seek Donations to Continue its Mission

OLD SAYBROOK, CT – October 7, 2020 - The Town of Old Saybrook announced today that its Old Saybrook Cares committee has awarded nearly $60,000 to 41 Old Saybrook residents in need.  Old Saybrook Cares committee was founded to assist town residents affected by COVID-19.  Under the program, Old Saybrook residents can apply for a grant up to $1,500 to be used for food, housing, utilities, childcare or transportation costs related to job layoffs and/or unemployment due to COVID-19.

First Selectman Carl Fortuna said: “Several months ago, we asked the citizens and businesses in our community to consider donating to a fund to help COVID-19 affected Old Saybrook residents. The response, led by a corporate donation from From You Flowers and Old Saybrook resident Mike Chapin, has been impressive. Nearly $60,000 has been raised and distributed, partly from community donations and partly from a special fund-raising effort by Old Saybrook’s finest, our own public safety department. Applications were accepted and appropriately vetted, and the committee wasted little time getting these funds distributed to community members who requested help. However, the need is still out there and it is still significant. We will be continuing our fundraising efforts into the fall so that we can help more families. Old Saybrook takes care of its own, and this fundraising effort is a wonderful example of that.”

The Committee distributed and exhausted the funds raised to date and is seeking more donations to continue its mission to help even more Old Saybrook residents. The goal is to raise $100,000 in order to address the ongoing needs of as many Old Saybrook residents as possible. 

As part of its fundraising efforts, the Committee is holding a virtual Walkathon to be completed by October 24, 2020. To participate or sponsor the event, visit www.facebook.com/oldsaybrookcares. 

Another fundraising opportunity is through the sale of Old Saybrook Cares car magnets, which can be purchased for $20 at local businesses including Ashlawn Farm Coffee, Dr. Sliva, DMD and the Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce.

To make a tax deductible donation, visit at www.middlesexunitedway.org/oldsaybrookcares or checks can be mailed to Old Saybrook Cares Committee, c/o Town Hall, 302 Main St., Old Saybrook, CT 06475.

About the Town of Old Saybrook
One of Connecticut's oldest towns, settled in 1635 and located where the Connecticut River meets Long Island Sound, Old Saybrook offers a trove of historical and cultural sites. Old Saybrook hosts a thriving business environment, eclectic shops, unique restaurants, and beautiful natural resources from the beach to the coastal forest. There is a small town atmosphere with friendly neighborhoods, meaningful organizations, and a feeling of community and security. History and tradition abound giving the town roots that generate stability and a sense of pride and blend seamlessly with a modern culture. Whether you are visiting, looking for a home, or seeking the ideal business location, you will find it in Old Saybrook.

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